Family Talk Night Light for Parents

Live in Peace

Live in peace with each other. 1 Thessalonians 5:13

Kellie, a sensitive six-year-old, enters the kitchen and discovers her parents arguing. “You don’t care about me!” her red-faced mother shouts at her father, who stands in the corner with his arms crossed. “Every time I ask you to do something you make an excuse. Marrying you was a big mistake!” “Mistakes can be fixed,” the father snaps back. “I never asked for a marriage like this!” Now upset herself, Kellie runs to her bedroom and covers her head with a pillow.

We all know that conflict is inevitable in marriage. But how often do we pause to consider the impact of our battles on others? Even when the combatants make up, the fallout of harsh words or acts can linger not only between Mom and Dad, but also in the minds of their kids.

Imagine how you would feel if you were suddenly aware of conflict between God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. It would be a devastating moment, one that would shake the foundations of your faith. That’s how kids feel about ever-present strife between parents. We urge you to “live in peace with each other” and make the most of your relationship as husband and wife—for your own sake, and for the sake of sons and daughters who depend on you to provide a nurturing environment at home.

Before you say good night…

Do you argue in front of your children?

How does it seem to affect them?

What can you do to provide a more nurturing atmosphere for your kids?

O Lord, how we sometimes struggle to live in peace with each other! Show us the hurtful impact of our angry words and deeds, and help us to bring a holy unity to our marriage and family as we seek to know and follow You. Amen.

• From Night Light For Parents, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
  Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.